CHF 30,000 - 50,000

USD 30,000 - 50,000 /
EUR 20,000 - 35,000

Sold: CHF 43,200

Grading System

Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 3

Good

Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 3-23-01

Good

Later

HANDS Original

Notes

Two kinds of monochrome enamel vintage dials are generally
seen: the present type, with the Rolex crown at 12, and a larger
one, with the Rolex crown under the 12 oclock marker. The
enamel dial of this watch, though monochrome, is a masterpiece
in itself. By its finish, it can be determined to be from the last
series of monochrome enamel dials made by Stern Frères for
Rolex during the period. The outer minute dots, which look like
applied gold, are in fact drilled with a specially-made diamond
tool, giving a conical, high-relief effect. They are called pearls
and their brilliance is due to the sharp-cut cone that reflects
light at 360 degrees. The indexes are hand made and the facets
cut with a diamond. The makers signature and all other inscriptions
are of pure gold powder and are produced by means of a
transferring machine (décalqueuse).
The deep green color of this dial suggests that it might have
been created for the 50th anniversary of Rolex, in a limited
series of 50 examples.
These dials are very rare and ever rarer when not cracked or
damaged. One of the Rolex collectors favorite watches, here in
an early version with the most sought-after dial type. Genex
Had the same address as Gay-Frères. The Genex factory was a
sub-division in which Rolex became a partner and was the main
supplier for its gold cases at that time.